Ethernet hubs and switches are networking devices that connect computers [and IP devices] together. A hub is basic, offering simple data transmission capabilities to MAC addresses over Layer-1. A switch is complex, offering security, efficiency, intelligent function, and capability to transmit to specific in-network, MAC addresses over Layer-2 and Layer-3.
The switch has a MAC address table and it will learn where all the MAC addresses are in the network. Now, assuming Computer A is going to send something to Computer B: Computer A is going to send some data meant for computer B, thus it will create an Ethernet frame which has a source MAC address (AAA) and a destination MAC address (BBB). In this case, the Ethernet switch learns all user MAC addresses and if user A can obtain the MAC address of user C, then user A can send traffic directly to user C without going to the IP-edge. This is not acceptable: in Intelligent Bridging mode no direct user to user communication is allowed in the network. All Intel Macs, as well as iMacs released since mid-2005, PowerBooks since late 2001, and Power Macs since mid-2000, have Gigabit Ethernet. (To see if your Mac qualifies, select Apple: About this. UGREEN Ethernet Adapter USB 2.0 to 10/100 Network RJ45 LAN Wired Adapter Compatible for Nintendo Switch, Wii, Wii U, MacBook, Chromebook, Windows, Mac OS, Surface, Linux ASIX AX88772 Chipset (Black) 4.6 out of 5 stars 10,460. The ability to switch between different sets of network settings (locations) can be useful in circumstances such as these: You use the same type of network (such as Ethernet) at work and at home, but the settings you use at work don't allow your Mac to automatically connect to the same type of network at home.
What are layers 1, 2, and 3?
Layers are the paths over which data is transmitted. The Open Systems Intercommunication (OSI) standards define layers as the model for communication over a network.
![Ethernet switch for mac catalina Ethernet switch for mac catalina](/uploads/1/1/4/2/114242269/684249106.png)
Following are the layers over which Ethernet hubs and switches operate in-network functioning. Each device does this by targeting MAC addresses.
What is a MAC address?
MAC stands for Media Access Control. It’s either a 48-bit or 64-bit address given to a network adapter at the time of a computer’s manufacture.
A MAC address is the hardware address for that device. An IP address, on the other hand, is a software address. Both of these can be found in that particular computer’s Network Interface Card (NIC).
These addresses allow both hubs and switches to transmit data to a computer.
Now that you understand the route a signal travels and the address of the computer receiving, let’s look at how hubs and switches transmit to them.
What does an Ethernet hub do?
An Ethernet Hub connects broadcasts signals to computers within a Local Area Network (LAN) through a process called frame flooding, also known as unicast. It is like one big blast. A Hub does not differentiate between MAC addresses, and indeed cannot. It does not have the software required to identify specific targets.
A hub is essentially an unintelligent device. Each incoming bit is replicated on all other interfaces.
A hub is the easiest and least expensive way to construct a network of personal computers together.
Mac Ethernet Connection
One problem with hubs is the unnecessary traffic due to the spammy transmission process. It’s also not secure because it can send data that is not intended for all end-users. A hub generally has 4 to 12 ports.
What does an Ethernet switch do?
Ethernet Switch Mac Learning
A switch is an intelligent device, transmitting to specific MAC addresses within the LAN. It has the capability to learn or “remember” and distinguish between specific addresses by accessing them from a CAM table.
Software allows the switch to regulate traffic, eliminating spammy signals and making connected networks highly efficient.
Ethernet Switch For Macbook Pro
A switch costs more, but it not only supports personal computers but also support a variety of other IP devices. That brings it into the realm of the Internet things and the ability to support remote devices within a larger WAN, VLAN, or LAN.
Ethernet Switch For Mac Catalina
Intelligent features allow administrators to turn ports off and on, or filter, through specific ports and manage VLAN security. A network switch generally has 24 to 48 ports.